Hogg makes positive first impression as Guthrie relishes pre-season opportunity

The Cobblers skipper essentially missed the whole of 2025 due to an ACL injury, and whilst he did return for the second half of last season, playing 19 games, he admits he did not feel at his absolute best, partially due to a lack of a proper pre-season.

"It’ll be massive to be able to have a full pre-season this year,” said the 33-year-old, who triggered a one-year contract extension this summer. “I didn’t go away due to having another child so that meant I could work really hard on myself during the off-season. I’ve done a lot in the gym to make myself as fit and as strong as possible.

"It was tough not having a pre-season last year because I felt I was having to catch up with everyone else during the season, which is never easy. But I’m in from the start this year and I’m looking forward to the next few weeks.”

On his first impressions of new manager Chris Hogg, Guthrie added: "It’s been really good so far and really positive. I had some discussions with the gaffer and Chris (Doig) earlier the summer after they were appointed, and we had another meeting this morning (Tuesday), which again was very positive. I’m looking forward to working with them."

Cobblers will be desperate to start the 2026/27 season well given the events of the last few months.

Guthrie, who had another child over the summer, continued: “The mood is good. We obviously have some new faces in and that always helps, and the gaffer has spoken about how it’s a clean slate for everyone. We know last season wasn’t good enough but it’s a fresh start and we have to make the most of it.

"I remember the first year I joined, the club had just been relegated but we went on and made the play-offs, so it’s up to us to go and have a positive season.”